We are in the forth episode in a series of episodes dedicated to a network of incubator farms that Yara North America is using to find innovative ways to improve farm productivity balanced with sustainable practices that can be implemented by growers to improve their on-farm profits. 

In this episode, Scott Warr and Erika Wagner discuss the Yara incubator farm in the Snake River Valley, Idaho, and its focus on potato production. They explore the differences between potato production for fries and the fresh market, as well as the objectives of the incubator farm in terms of crop nutrition, yield, quality, and carbon footprint. They also discuss the levers that can be pulled to reduce emissions in potato production and the importance of nutrient management in potato sizing and quality. Erika shares her excitement about the new season in the Snake River Valley and highlights the conferences and events where potato growers can learn more about the industry.

Erika Wagner, Agronomy Solutions Manager.  Erika has a BS in molecular biology and a masters in agronomy.

Fun facts about potato production in Idaho:
• Idaho grows the most acres of potatoes of any US state with 328,850 planted in 2023.
• The majority of the potatoes grown are russet potatoes.
• Russet potatoes grown in Idaho are used for processing into fries and for the fresh market.
• The majority of potato acres in Idaho are located in the Snake River Valley.